Indian Fried Dough ~ Jalebi

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon yeast
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (labeled maida in Indian stores)
• 1 teaspoon gram flour (besan) (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon mild vegetable oil (plus more for frying)
• About 1 cup lukewarm water
• A few drops orange or yellow food coloring ((optional))
• Pinch ground cardamom
• Pinch crushed saffron threads
• 1 to 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice